Indonesia's PT PLN orders world's first CNG carrier in China

The world’s first CNG carrier will be 110 m in length and have a capacity of 2,200 cu m, will be dual-classed by ABS and Indonesian class society Biro Klasifikasi Indonesia. It has been designed by China's CIMC Ocean Engineering Design & Research Institute.

The vessel will be Indonesian-flagged and likely ply trades from East Java to the island of Lombok reach communities it is not feasible to supply gas to via pipelines. PT PLN said earlier this month that it expected the Lombok CNG plant and CNG vessel to operational in May 2016.

"This prestigious contract is a testament to our commitment to high quality service, technical innovation and remaining a pioneer in the safe transport and handling of gas," said ABS chairman and ceo Christopher J. Wiernicki.

“As society's demands continue to drive the search for cleaner forms of energy, new methods of marine transport, propulsion and processing for gas are being required.”

CNG carrier designs have been on the drawing board for well over a decade, however, this is the first time an actual order has been placed. ABS classed its first design for construction by Canada’s Sea NG Corp in 2006.